Loading aboard USS Ranger (CVA-61) at NAS Alameda, August 1964

“Sadly, as it turns out, the VA-94 A4 in the image (BuNo.148515) was lost (both Pilot & A/C) on March 21, 1966, over Gulf of Tonkin (75 mi. E of Moi Ron), when it collided with VA-94 A4 (BuNo. 148499) (both Pilot & A/C lost), while deployed on USS ENTERPRISE (CVN-65).

VA-94 was deployed with us on USS HANCOCK (CVA-19) (CVW-5) January – July ’67.

When I discovered the history behind BuNo 148515 & 148499, it brought many thoughts to mind. First and foremost, was a feeling of deep respect for the two pilots and their families. Those of you who risked your lives daily, year after year, flying those dangerous missions, are a “Band of Brothers”, far, far apart from those of us who merely worked around danger on the flight-deck, and elsewhere aboard ships, in support roles.”

Ron Jones, AMS2